blue lake award submittal

PROJECT FACT SHEET
Page 1
Project Name: Blue Lake Park Nature and Golf Learning Center
Project Location: Fairview, Oregon
Project Budget Amount: N/A
Purpose of Project
A new golf course archetype was developed for the Blue Lake Park in Fairview, Oregon commissioned
by Portland’s Metro regional government. The “Nature and Golf Learning Center” is designed on an 85-
acre site within the existing park and contains multiple environmentally sensitive features: a 35-acre
wetland, four city wells (back-up water supply for Portland, OR), a stream, and riparian vegetation. The
revolutionary design provides multiple golf routing alternatives on one single layout. Metro expects the
unique design of the learning center to draw significant crowds to generate revenue for the park and
become a model for future development of golf learning facilities on small, sensitive sites across the
country.
The placement and purpose of the center offers a valuable opportunity for Metro to address two of its
primary values: environmental sustainability and community involvement.
The environmental design of the Center includes an array of innovative approaches. First, the existing
wetland required significant restoration to enhance its quality. The introduction of diversity in native plant
species and wildlife addressed this need for mitigation. Second, groundwater protection was provided
through a storm water management system that limits sediment transport from the golf course, improves
water quality before it leaves the site, and protects the below-ground aquifer by using bio-filtration catch
systems integrated strategically with the golf design. Third, the selection of fescue-based mixes of turf
grasses limits course irrigation and associated chemical-usage including herbicides, pesticides and
fertilizers. Finally, maintenance costs are kept to a minimum as a result of the natural design and
maintenance practices.
The Nature and Golf Learning Center breaks traditional barriers long associated with the sport of golf.
First, the center’s accessibility, for a range of income and ability levels, ensures that taxpayer money is
not subsidizing a perk for the wealthy, but is instead creating an asset for all residents and visitors of
Portland. Second, with the various course routings, golfers not only find a course of play that fits their
skill level, but also a variety of experiences within those individual skill levels, as course layouts shift on
a regular basis. Third, interpretive fitness trails and signage teaches users about the below-ground aquifer;
native vegetation plantings and home-based applications; and the history, traditions, values and rules of
golf. Lastly, the incorporation of nature trails and other pedestrian and cycling routes expands
inclusiveness beyond golf enthusiasts.
Beyond the environmental and community realms of the project, the architects gave special attention to
the aesthetic quality and experience of this place. First, the design blends the course with the existing
native landscape such that there is no apparent intersection between it and the newly constructed facility.
Next, creative grading techniques provide interesting golf strategy that gives precedent to ancient Scottish
links courses, and enounces the most natural quality design possible. And finally, the overall design
elements of the course test every-imaginable golf shot for players of all abilities.
PROJECT FACT SHEET
Page 2
Role of the Landscape Architect
The landscape architect provided all master planning and golf course design for the project. The designers
thought beyond the initial program requirement of a nine-hole golf facility, and opted for an unorthodox,
multi-directional course layout with creative use of space. The architects, inspired by the need to
incorporate community learning and involvement, as well as environmentally sensitive design, proposed
the innovative master plan to Metro’s Council and the public. It was unanimously approved and endorsed
by the Portland Water Bureau, Metro’s Council, the First Tee Program of Oregon, and the Oregon
GCSAA.
Special Factors
1. The multiple routing option design of the course is revolutionary for learning center facilities.
Variable routes of play offer players of all abilities and experience an engaging and rewarding game
of golf.
2. Visitors are educated about golf, natural and environmental water systems, wellheads and native
plantings through the learning center and safe, interpretive trails.
3. Storm water management systems limit sediment transport from the golf course, improving water
quality from the site.
4. Strategically placed bio-filtration catch systems eliminate contamination of the below-ground aquifer.
5. Interpretive fitness trails and signage offer golfers and other facility users the opportunity to learn
more about the project. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic are provided access to Portland’s “40-Mile
Loop,” a circuit of boulevards and nature corridors forming a continuous loop around the Portland
metro area.
6. By fitting the course to the native landscape, construction and maintenance costs are reduced, and
green fees will be more affordable to players from a range of income levels.
7. Design of the course with short green-to-tee connections encourages walking and fitness. Carts will
not be a part of the operation of the course.
8. The learning center will attract and introduce visitors of all economic standing, race and abilities to
the game of golf to help grow the game.
9. A minimal footprint of the golf course reduces the overall environmental impact.
Significance
The design for the center at Blue Lake is exceptionally innovative because it accommodates program
mandates on a physically and environmentally constrained site, while creating an enjoyable golf and
nature experience for people regardless of ability, age or socio-economic background. Collaboration with
the region’s best environmental scientists ensures proper layout and design of the facility, while the
inventive design varies degrees of difficulty and offers an array of learning opportunities, breaking down
the stigma of golf.
The design responds to existing environmental conditions and engages with the civic responsibilities of
the project. With this new facility at Blue Lake Park, embraced by stakeholders and citizens alike,
Fairview has an opportunity for lasting revenue and recreation. Balancing municipal conservation and
development, the facility is inclusive, attractive, lucrative and sustainable. This project is an opportunity
for the establishment of a valuable community asset for generations to come.
PHOTO DESCRIPTION SHEET
Page 1
Project Name: Blue Lake Park Nature and Golf Learning Center
Project Location: Fairview, Oregon
Blue Lake 01: Context map
The Blue Lake Park is located fifteen miles from downtown Portland and has direct access from the city’s
“40-mile Loop” trail. The park attracts various neighborhoods and a diverse range of people, ideal for the
learning center.
Blue Lake 02: Site photo
This image illustrates the degraded wetland along with one of the sensitive Portland Water Bureau
drinking wells, which dictate the design and site enhancement for the project.
Blue Lake 03: Site analysis and setback map
A display of the spatial limitations of the site, which was the basis for the innovative design layout. From
a total 85-acres, only 36-acres are developable for the golf, and Metro’s “Nature in Neighborhoods”
program.
Blue Lake 04: Preliminary sketches
Archetype design studies of holes that test various golf shots lay the framework for routing and strategy
of the golf course. More archetypes were created than that which could fit on the site in a typical golf
routing.
Blue Lake 05: Preliminary design study
Early design studies encroached significantly on the wetland and safety issues became apparent with the
desired program. An integrated trail system was a foremost design element trying to tie the community
into the course.
Blue Lake 06 Conventional routing design
An early plan clearly demonstrates the required program in a typical 9-hole course layout. This type of
design is confined to a single direction, and can test only a limited number of golf shots.
Blue Lake 07: Two-way routing design
This advanced plan shows the possibility of layout that offers two separate courses on one layout; a 9-
hole and a 6-hole. The two courses offer varying levels of difficulty.
Blue Lake 08: Unconventional multi-directional design
This plan established the final design concept. No golf centerlines are shown to illustrate that unlimited
routing alternatives are possible on a single layout.
Blue Lake 09: Conceptual Master Plan
The final design maximizes native areas, enhances and increases the size of the wetland, and preserves
much of the existing native vegetation. The large range and unique course provided unlimited learning
possibilities.
Blue Lake 10: Multi-directional routing alternatives
Operations will designate the schedule of routing for a given period of time (weekly, daily, half day, etc.)
for play. Golfers can then choose which layout to play based on their ability and advance through the
courses.
PHOTO DESCRIPTION SHEET
Page 2
Blue Lake 11: Section
The practice range, clubhouse, trails, golf course and wetland fit harmoniously together in the executed
design.
Blue Lake 12: Perspective
Taken from the southeast of the property, this sketch evokes the design intent of the learning center. The
water-cleaning systems dictate the character of the course and provide for a learning experience about
golf and the native environment.

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PROJECT FACT SHEET
Page 1
Project Name: Blue Lake Park Nature and Golf Learning Center
Project Location: Fairview, Oregon
Project Budget Amount: N/A
Purpose of Project
A new golf course archetype was developed for the Blue Lake Park in Fairview, Oregon commissioned
by Portland’s Metro regional government. The “Nature and Golf Learning Center” is designed on an 85-
acre site within the existing park and contains multiple environmentally sensitive features: a 35-acre
wetland, four city wells (back-up water supply for Portland, OR), a stream, and riparian vegetation. The
revolutionary design provides multiple golf routing alternatives on one single layout. Metro expects the
unique design of the learning center to draw significant crowds to generate revenue for the park and
become a model for future development of golf learning facilities on small, sensitive sites across the
country.
The placement and purpose of the center offers a valuable opportunity for Metro to address two of its
primary values: environmental sustainability and community involvement.
The environmental design of the Center includes an array of innovative approaches. First, the existing
wetland required significant restoration to enhance its quality. The introduction of diversity in native plant
species and wildlife addressed this need for mitigation. Second, groundwater protection was provided
through a storm water management system that limits sediment transport from the golf course, improves
water quality before it leaves the site, and protects the below-ground aquifer by using bio-filtration catch
systems integrated strategically with the golf design. Third, the selection of fescue-based mixes of turf
grasses limits course irrigation and associated chemical-usage including herbicides, pesticides and
fertilizers. Finally, maintenance costs are kept to a minimum as a result of the natural design and
maintenance practices.
The Nature and Golf Learning Center breaks traditional barriers long associated with the sport of golf.
First, the center’s accessibility, for a range of income and ability levels, ensures that taxpayer money is
not subsidizing a perk for the wealthy, but is instead creating an asset for all residents and visitors of
Portland. Second, with the various course routings, golfers not only find a course of play that fits their
skill level, but also a variety of experiences within those individual skill levels, as course layouts shift on
a regular basis. Third, interpretive fitness trails and signage teaches users about the below-ground aquifer;
native vegetation plantings and home-based applications; and the history, traditions, values and rules of
golf. Lastly, the incorporation of nature trails and other pedestrian and cycling routes expands
inclusiveness beyond golf enthusiasts.
Beyond the environmental and community realms of the project, the architects gave special attention to
the aesthetic quality and experience of this place. First, the design blends the course with the existing
native landscape such that there is no apparent intersection between it and the newly constructed facility.
Next, creative grading techniques provide interesting golf strategy that gives precedent to ancient Scottish
links courses, and enounces the most natural quality design possible. And finally, the overall design
elements of the course test every-imaginable golf shot for players of all abilities.
PROJECT FACT SHEET
Page 2
Role of the Landscape Architect
The landscape architect provided all master planning and golf course design for the project. The designers
thought beyond the initial program requirement of a nine-hole golf facility, and opted for an unorthodox,
multi-directional course layout with creative use of space. The architects, inspired by the need to
incorporate community learning and involvement, as well as environmentally sensitive design, proposed
the innovative master plan to Metro’s Council and the public. It was unanimously approved and endorsed
by the Portland Water Bureau, Metro’s Council, the First Tee Program of Oregon, and the Oregon
GCSAA.
Special Factors
1. The multiple routing option design of the course is revolutionary for learning center facilities.
Variable routes of play offer players of all abilities and experience an engaging and rewarding game
of golf.
2. Visitors are educated about golf, natural and environmental water systems, wellheads and native
plantings through the learning center and safe, interpretive trails.
3. Storm water management systems limit sediment transport from the golf course, improving water
quality from the site.
4. Strategically placed bio-filtration catch systems eliminate contamination of the below-ground aquifer.
5. Interpretive fitness trails and signage offer golfers and other facility users the opportunity to learn
more about the project. Pedestrian and bicycle traffic are provided access to Portland’s “40-Mile
Loop,” a circuit of boulevards and nature corridors forming a continuous loop around the Portland
metro area.
6. By fitting the course to the native landscape, construction and maintenance costs are reduced, and
green fees will be more affordable to players from a range of income levels.
7. Design of the course with short green-to-tee connections encourages walking and fitness. Carts will
not be a part of the operation of the course.
8. The learning center will attract and introduce visitors of all economic standing, race and abilities to
the game of golf to help grow the game.
9. A minimal footprint of the golf course reduces the overall environmental impact.
Significance
The design for the center at Blue Lake is exceptionally innovative because it accommodates program
mandates on a physically and environmentally constrained site, while creating an enjoyable golf and
nature experience for people regardless of ability, age or socio-economic background. Collaboration with
the region’s best environmental scientists ensures proper layout and design of the facility, while the
inventive design varies degrees of difficulty and offers an array of learning opportunities, breaking down
the stigma of golf.
The design responds to existing environmental conditions and engages with the civic responsibilities of
the project. With this new facility at Blue Lake Park, embraced by stakeholders and citizens alike,
Fairview has an opportunity for lasting revenue and recreation. Balancing municipal conservation and
development, the facility is inclusive, attractive, lucrative and sustainable. This project is an opportunity
for the establishment of a valuable community asset for generations to come.
PHOTO DESCRIPTION SHEET
Page 1
Project Name: Blue Lake Park Nature and Golf Learning Center
Project Location: Fairview, Oregon
Blue Lake 01: Context map
The Blue Lake Park is located fifteen miles from downtown Portland and has direct access from the city’s
“40-mile Loop” trail. The park attracts various neighborhoods and a diverse range of people, ideal for the
learning center.
Blue Lake 02: Site photo
This image illustrates the degraded wetland along with one of the sensitive Portland Water Bureau
drinking wells, which dictate the design and site enhancement for the project.
Blue Lake 03: Site analysis and setback map
A display of the spatial limitations of the site, which was the basis for the innovative design layout. From
a total 85-acres, only 36-acres are developable for the golf, and Metro’s “Nature in Neighborhoods”
program.
Blue Lake 04: Preliminary sketches
Archetype design studies of holes that test various golf shots lay the framework for routing and strategy
of the golf course. More archetypes were created than that which could fit on the site in a typical golf
routing.
Blue Lake 05: Preliminary design study
Early design studies encroached significantly on the wetland and safety issues became apparent with the
desired program. An integrated trail system was a foremost design element trying to tie the community
into the course.
Blue Lake 06 Conventional routing design
An early plan clearly demonstrates the required program in a typical 9-hole course layout. This type of
design is confined to a single direction, and can test only a limited number of golf shots.
Blue Lake 07: Two-way routing design
This advanced plan shows the possibility of layout that offers two separate courses on one layout; a 9-
hole and a 6-hole. The two courses offer varying levels of difficulty.
Blue Lake 08: Unconventional multi-directional design
This plan established the final design concept. No golf centerlines are shown to illustrate that unlimited
routing alternatives are possible on a single layout.
Blue Lake 09: Conceptual Master Plan
The final design maximizes native areas, enhances and increases the size of the wetland, and preserves
much of the existing native vegetation. The large range and unique course provided unlimited learning
possibilities.
Blue Lake 10: Multi-directional routing alternatives
Operations will designate the schedule of routing for a given period of time (weekly, daily, half day, etc.)
for play. Golfers can then choose which layout to play based on their ability and advance through the
courses.
PHOTO DESCRIPTION SHEET
Page 2
Blue Lake 11: Section
The practice range, clubhouse, trails, golf course and wetland fit harmoniously together in the executed
design.
Blue Lake 12: Perspective
Taken from the southeast of the property, this sketch evokes the design intent of the learning center. The
water-cleaning systems dictate the character of the course and provide for a learning experience about
golf and the native environment.